Media Release

Hawaiʻi Island Police are investigating the discovery of skeletal remains in Puna.

On May 24 at about 2:03 pm, police responded to a report of skeletal remains in a forested area near the 14-mile marker of Route 130 in Pahoa.

Detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigations Section and evidence specialists responded to the area and discovered a partial set of human skeletal remains. In addition to the remains, detectives also recovered a weapon that was located nearby. The remains were taken to Hilo Medical Center for an examination by the medical examiner, who was unable to determine a cause of death due to their condition.

Police recovered identification that was found with the remains but will rely on DNA for positive identification.

Detectives are continuing the investigation, which is classified as a coroner’s inquest.

Police ask that anyone with information on this case call Detective Ernest Matsumoto at 961-2379 or email at ematsumoto@co.hawaii.hi.us. Callers may also call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers doesn’t record calls or subscribe to caller ID. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.